Scuba Diving in Surin Islands

The Surin Islands are five islands located 55 kilometres from the Thai mainland named Koh Surin Nua, Koh Surin Tai, Koh Ri, Koh Kai and Koh Klang. The two main islands in the group are Koh Surin Nua and Koh Surin Tai. The park is home to one of the most famous dive sites in the world, Richelieu Rock.

Richelieu Rock is Thailand's premier dive site and one of the best places in Thailand to see Big Pelagics like Whale Sharks and Manta Rays. This huge pinnacle climbing from the depths of the Andaman Sea attracts scuba divers from around the world. Huge fish, soft corals and an incredible array of small fish make Richelieu famous around the world. In addition the islands feature pristine reefs, making it home to some of the best snorkeling in Thailand.

Richelieu Rock is commonly referred to one as one of the ten best dive spots in the world. Named after the first (and only foreign) Commander-in-Chief of the Thai Navy, the remote rock is home to some of the largest marine life species in Thailand. Sightings of Whale Shark, Manta Ray and sharks are common.

The islands have a broad selection of animal life - including the Nicobar Pigeon and Mangrove Monitor Lizards. Below the water can be found a very rich and pristine coral reef ecosystem. While small portions of the islands were affected by the 2004 Tsunami, most reefs are still quite healthy. There is a small "Sea Gypsy" village made up of the small ethnic Moken minority.

Other Popular dive sites include Hin Kong, Koh Torinla and Koh Chi. You will find the very best scuba diving and snorkelling sites in Thailand. Dozens of reefs, big and small litter the coastline pf the Surin Islands. The very best spots are on the Eastern coast of the two largest islands. Here you can find colorful reefs teeming with marine life.

Access to the Surin Islands Marine National Park is easiest from either Khao Lak or kura buri in Phang Nga Province. Travel to the islands is only safe from November to May. The park is closed in the other months. The mainland office of the park is in Ngan Yong, just north of Khuraburi. Dive operators in Khao Lak offer live-aboard diving trips and day trips via speedboat.

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